Existing board employees already earn more than $14.95 an hour, hence the symbolic nature of the adoption of the living-wage policy. But that symbolism is of critical importance in creating momentum for an important and highly complex conversation we must continue to pursue as a community.

An estimated 30,000 employed Hamiltonians don’t earn enough to live above the poverty line. For families and individuals, that may mean relying on a food bank, living in insecure housing, or being unable to fully participate in educational and/or social activities. As a caring community, it is in our best interests to aspire to a decent standard of living and a vibrant inclusion in the community for all our citizens.